People across Cumbria are urged to register their Ring doorbell or CCTV to help police fight crime.
Cumbria Constabulary has launched Connect Cumbria, a third party camera registry programme.
It means police officers will have access to a map of the registered CCTV and doorbell cameras so they can accelerate investigations.
When a crime takes place, officers can see immediately which businesses and residential properties close to the scene have CCTV or doorbell cameras, and may have vital evidence.
Temporary Superintendent Lee Skelton, of Cumbria Constabulary, said: “It is an effective tool which can quickly and efficiently locate cameras in an area where we may be able to source crucial evidence to aid our investigations.
“Accessing a map of pre-registered CCTV and doorbell cameras will enable our officers to identify potential evidential opportunities in a matter of seconds.
“Not only will this save valuable time, it will also undoubtedly lead to criminals being held accountable for their actions in a far swifter timeframe.
“Key to this is the support of our communities. If you have private CCTV or doorbell cameras, we would like you to register these with us so we can build a full picture of where cameras are across our county.
“The registration process is quick, simple and there is no additional cost.”
In registering a CCTV or doorbell camera, the owner continues to have full ownership of the footage and Cumbria Constabulary does not have access to these cameras.
Upon identifying a camera of interest, officers will send a request to the owner for them to review their footage to see if this holds evidence pertinent to the case.
Supt Skelton added: “This game-changing mapping functionality enables our officers to identify pre-registered cameras which may be of interest, it does not enable our officers to access this data without the owner’s permission.
“Video footage can be crucial in establishing the full circumstances of an allegation. By accelerating our potential CCTV enquiries, we will be able to achieve positive outcomes for victims of crime much quicker.
“Cumbria Constabulary is adopting technologies and data platforms to enhance public engagement, increase efficiency, and strengthen our communities today and for the future.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen said: “CCTV is already a fantastic tool to help the police investigate crimes and potentially identify criminals. This is an incredible extension to the technology.
“The addition of this will help expand our system and help catch criminals. I would encourage anyone or any business with CCTV or video doorbells to register with the constabulary.
“I want to make it clear: this isn’t a tool to spy on law-abiding members of the public.
“Registering your camera simply makes the police aware that you have equipment that records footage. If a crime happens in your area, the police will ask for permission to view the footage – they have no way to access it without the owner’s permission.
“You could help tackle crime in your area simply by registering – it’s a brilliant tool and together we can all protect Cumbria.”
To register your CCTV or doorbell camera, please visit: www.connectcumbria.co.uk.
